From BMX to gymnastics, swimming and wheelchair basketball, countless sporting codes were represented at a unique Canterbury coaching hui.

Although their codes are diverse, the participants shared one thing in common: an interest in learning from each other.

“There is learning taking place here on so many levels,” said Pat Barwick, Sport Canterbury Performance Coach Advisor, standing on a green Sunday morning at the Riccarton Racecourse Bowls Club.

Eleven participants represented Barwick’s Performance Coach Advance (PCA) programme, which provides access to professional development and mentoring through a regular series of workshops, observations and needs-based opportunities.

The weekend workshop featured seminars and practical examples provided by renowned coach Wayne Goldsmith. The session at Riccarton Club saw nine Canterbury Bowls Coaches and their Academy athletes, working through a series of game scenarios and finding solutions. The PCA groups task was to observe and share in coaching discussion and feedback with the Bowling coaches.

BEKO Netball League Coach Peter McInnes said the weekend was an excellent opportunity. “Seeing different coaches in different contexts is always cool. There’s always things to learn.”

New Zealand Road Cycling Development Coach (U19 and U17) Lance Spencer agreed. “It’s always good to catch up with other performance coaches. It all relates back – the surface is difference but the concept is still the same.”

About Sport Canterbury

The Sport Canterbury team has in-depth experience in community sport, event management and physical activity. We deliver programmes and events to teachers, coaches, sporting organisations, health professionals and people of all ages across the Canterbury West Coast region. Everything we do is about getting, and keeping, people engaged with sport and physical activity. Our Regional Sports Trust offices are in Christchurch, Mid Canterbury, South Canterbury and the West Coast.

Quality sporting experiences and pathways to achievement rely upon the same important thing – coaches who are confident and inspired. Sport Canterbury is committed to providing Canterbury and West Coast coaches with valuable opportunities for professional development.